I am a Filipino immigrant and have made Australia my home.
I was 11 when my parents decided to migrate to Australia.
Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, my younger sister and I were separated from our parents.
Technicalities in the immigration process — and border closures due to COVID-19 — meant we were left behind in the Philippines.
Our parents took multiple part-time jobs to provide for us.
Two years passed by. It felt hopeless.
When Mum called to tell me I had finally got my visa to come to Australia, I felt indescribable joy.
My sister and I were able to reunite with our parents in Australia … and start a life.
We settled in Red Cliffs, Victoria.
I found it difficult to fit in. Simple things like making conversation at school were hard. I didn’t understand the slang.
I used to sit alone at school, until some of my peers started asking me questions about my life.
I made new friends, and they taught me Aussie slang. As we became closer, I realised we’re not all that different and I felt like I was settling in here!
I joined the Australian Army Cadets because of my interest in a military career.
I wanted to serve my community and being in the Australian Army Cadets gives me a sense of duty, discipline, and responsibility. I also discovered the concept of mateship and the value of teamwork.
Joining the Australian Army Cadets is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
But I have not forgotten my Filipino roots, and I’m so grateful for my family, who took care of my sister and me for years.
Even though I miss them a lot, I carry their feelings of love and comfort with me.
I’ve realised that home does not simply describe a place of residence and where you’re born. It’s where you feel happy.
I’m excited to see where my career in cadets takes me and, most of all, I’m proud to now feel part of this community.